With the main aim of creating a neighbourhood that is secure and sustainable, concerned community members from Strubens Valley and Little falls came together to form Lifco (Little Falls and Strubens Valley Community Forum), a residents association and registered NGO.
According to executive committee member Carol Castrillon, Lifco is a forum which is striving to continually improve the area by building a neighbourhood with world-class advantages.
Their aim is to create a neighbourhood that:
- is secure,
- is drug-free,
- has world-class recreational facilities,
- promises continued improvement of Little Falls and Strubens Valley and
- ultimately reduces and eradicates criminal activities.
The under-pinning rationale of Lifco is that communities where people are supported by and engaged with their neighbours are successful communities. “In this fast-paced country we find ourselves in, it does everyone a great deal of good to stop and greet one’s neighbour. In this way, Lifco hopes to uplift the spirit as well as stand together against the ugly face of crime,” said Castrillon.
Since its launch in October, Lifco has seen an increase in membership over the last two months.
The forum’s executive committee represents various sub-committees and projects, such as security, membership, communication and marketing, and parks and conservation areas.
Members and the committee meet at least once a month to discuss relevant issues, such as security, as well as fun events where the whole community is invited to take part.
Lifco is currently working towards the formal proclamation of the conservation area along the Little Falls Ridge. Potholes throughout the area have been filled, and although currently funded by individual residents, mountain rangers patrol the mountain and three streets bordering the mountain.
In October, the forum hosted a fun family day in the park, where neighbours had the opportunity to relax and get to know one another.
Each month going forward, small community-based initiatives such as these will be arranged.
Details: Lifco 082 550 4724, www.littlestrubens.co.za, info@littlestrubens.co.za,
